Wild fans get the absolute worst news for Kirill Kaprizov

Just when you thought superstar forward Kirill Kaprizov was ready to get back to get back into the 'Best Player in the NHL' conversation, it looks like he may be shutting things down.

Kaprizov, of course, was removed from the injured reserve last week and played for the first time in 2025 the past three games but now there's a report from Wild insider Michael Russo indicating that Kaprizov could require shoulder surgery, which would effectively end his season.

From Russo for The Athletic earlier today:

Kirill Kaprizov missed practice Tuesday and, according to multiple league sources, there have been discussions between Kaprizov, Minnesota Wild management and doctors over the past few days over whether Kaprizov should undergo surgery this week for a lower-body injury that has been ailing him since mid-December.

The right path forward was still being figured out Monday night, according to a team source, but multiple sources close to Kaprizov said surgery is the likeliest outcome. Wild president of hockey operations and general manager Bill Guerin is expected to address the media at 11 a.m.

- Michael Russo

This is obviously brutal news for the Wild and their fanbase.

The team has been stellar this season and Kaprizov, before his injury, has been one of the best players in the entire NHL this campaign. He missed 12 games with a shoulder injury dating back to December 23, 2024 and was an early season Hart Trophy candidate with 23 goals and 50 points through the season's first 34 games. He has two assists in three games since his return to action on January 23rd.

Stay tuned for news from GM Bill Guerin's press availability later today.